Filthy Score by Kenna King

 

Publish August 22, 2023

Read June 23rd-24th 2026

Review: Filthy Score by Kenna King

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5–4 stars) 

Filthy Score delivers a compelling continuation of the Hawkeyes series, blending strong character work with immersive settings—though it stumbles in key moments where the plot feels forced. 

Characters (8/10)

The heart of this story lies in its characters. Lake, the seemingly typical womanizing hockey player, proves to be far more complex than his reputation suggests. Beneath the surface is a man shaped by a major traumatic event prior to his NHL career, adding depth and vulnerability that makes him intriguing. 

Tessa, on the other hand, is a standout. As Seattle’s no-nonsense PR director, she’s sharp, resilient, and refuses to be intimidated—especially by Lake. Their dynamic fuels the story, leaning into the ever-popular enemies-to-lovers trope, but with enough tension and personality to feel engaging rather than tired. 

Atmosphere (8/10)

Kenna masterfully expands the Hawkeyes universe, creating a vivid sense of place. Aspen is brought to life with rich detail, making it easy to feel fully immersed in the setting. The eventual shift to Cabo serves as a satisfying contrast, tying the story together with a sense of escapism and payoff that feels earned. 

Writing (7/10)

One of the book’s strengths is its balance. While it includes the genre’s expected adult elements, it doesn’t rely on them to carry the narrative. Instead, there’s a genuine story at the core, which is refreshing. The writing keeps the reader grounded in the hockey world while also broadening the scope to new locations and experiences. 

Plot (6/10)

This is where the book falters. The central conflict—especially the extended house party sequence—feels drawn out and uninspired. While conflict is essential, this particular device comes across as lazy and disrupts the pacing. It detracts from what could have been a stronger, more cohesive storyline. 

Intrigue (7/10)

For the most part, the story is highly engaging. It’s easy to become invested in the characters and their journey. However, just as the momentum builds, the house party arc interrupts the flow and pulls you out of the experience. Thankfully, the Cabo portion revives the story, offering a satisfying recovery. 

Logic (6/10)

Up until the major conflict point, the narrative follows a consistent and believable path. Once the drama unfolds, however, that structure begins to unravel. Character decisions and plot developments feel less organic, making the story harder to fully buy into. 

Enjoyment (7/10)

This was, initially, an incredibly fast read—one of those books you fly through because you’re genuinely enjoying the ride. Unfortunately, the latter portion slows that momentum, turning what was once effortless reading into something that feels a bit like a slog to finish. 

Final Verdict 

Filthy Score lands somewhere between a high 3-star and a low 4-star read. Its strongest asset is undoubtedly its characters, who carry the story even when the plot struggles. While it leans on familiar tropes, it does so effectively for the most part. 

The twist intended to drive the final conflict, however, leaves much to be desired and may even frustrate readers. Still, the book offers a solid story that doesn’t overly depend on steamy scenes and keeps you engaged enough to continue with the Hawkeyes series. 

If you’re in it for character-driven romance with strong chemistry and an immersive setting, this one is worth the read—even if it doesn’t completely stick the landing.